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Classic Pasta Salad

Classic Pasta Salad: A Vibrant Crowd-Pleaser for Any Feast

Enjoy this Classic Pasta Salad, a vibrant crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad Ingredients
  • 12 oz Tri-Color Rotini Pasta Alternate with macaroni or shells if desired.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes or halved regular tomatoes work well.
  • 6 oz Sliced Pepperoni Replace with salami or omit for vegetarian option.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Green onions are a milder substitute.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Any bell pepper color or fresh cucumbers can be used.
  • 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese (cubed) Feta or provolone cheese are delicious alternatives.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Skip for dairy-free option or use nutritional yeast.
  • ½ cup Olives (sliced) Choose between green or Kalamata olives.
Vinaigrette Ingredients
  • cup Olive Oil Avocado oil or any neutral oil can be substituted.
  • ¼ cup Red Wine Vinegar White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning A blend of dried herbs.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust according to preference.
  • 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes Omit or adjust for a milder flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large spoon

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the tri-color rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled to room temperature.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the quartered cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, finely chopped red onion, diced green bell pepper, cubed mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and sliced olives. Fold together gently.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until every component is evenly coated.
  5. Cover the mixing bowl or transfer salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Remove from the fridge, let sit for about 20-30 minutes at room temperature before serving. Refresh dressing with olive oil and vinegar if necessary.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente and use fresh vegetables for best results.

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